The St. Johns River is one of Jacksonville’s most important natural resources, providing habitat for wildlife, supporting recreation, and shaping the identity of our community. But pollution from stormwater runoff, fertilizers, plastics, and other waste continues to threaten the river’s health.
Protecting the St. Johns does not always require huge changes. One of the easiest steps is reducing fertilizer use. When it rains, excess fertilizer can wash from lawns into storm drains and eventually reach the river, adding nutrients that contribute to harmful algae blooms. Planting native vegetation can also reduce runoff and help prevent erosion.
Keeping trash out of our waterways is equally important. Picking up litter, reducing single-use plastics, and participating in local river and neighborhood cleanups can prevent waste from reaching the St. Johns. Jacksonville residents can also help by properly disposing of chemicals and reporting pollution when they see it.
Most importantly, protecting the river requires community involvement. Supporting conservation organizations, learning about local environmental issues, and encouraging stronger protections for our waterways can turn individual actions into larger change.
The St. Johns River belongs to all of us. The choices we make in our yards, neighborhoods, and communities can help ensure that it remains healthy for generations to come.